The reason I gave my answer was because it seems that abrickley can't currently afford a new M3. Therefore, I considered that he probably wouldn't be able to afford expensive repairs on a 50K miles E46 M3 if necessary either. And we all know how much our BMWs cost to have minor repairs done on them. I know how much I spent on my E36 328is on repairs. It wasn't cheap. I only assume that an engine/electrical problem (assuming that an extended warrantee cannot be purchased from a dealership) can be costly on the E46 M3. I've never dealt with an independent mechanic on my BMWs, so I don't know what the story is there.
Unfortunately (or perhaps I should say fortunately), I haven't had to have any repairs done on my 2003 M3 yet (knock on wood). Therefore, I'm no authority on the possible out-of-pocket cost w/o warrantee.
